Relaxed 11-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Aberdeen and Dundee

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Edinburgh allows for both. Start by heading to Arthur's Seat. This underrated hiking area provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Holyrood Park, a romantic park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Holyrood Palace, a notable palace. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Dean Village. Round off your day at Edinburgh Zoo, another gem in Edinburgh with gorgeous features to discover.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Edinburgh offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Edinburgh by booking a table at Heron, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Condita, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit The Kitchin, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Edinburgh. The bars in Edinburgh make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Royal, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Ensign Ewart, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tonic likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Edinburgh!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Edinburgh!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Edinburgh, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Edinburgh Castle, a widely recognized castle in the city. Then, head to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic distillery.

There are many interesting places to see in Edinburgh, and when you are ready for more, go to Camera Obscura. This is one of the city’s most well-known breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the locally renowned Scottish National Gallery. Not far away, you'll also find Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is an instagrammable highlight in Edinburgh.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Edinburgh. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Edinburgh that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Edinburgh to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Edinburgh has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Angels with Bagpipes, an iconic dining spot in Edinburgh. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rabble Taphouse and Grill, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Black Ivy, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Scotland.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Hoot The Redeemer, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Albanach. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Thistle Street Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Today's adventure in Edinburgh promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Royal Mile. This enchanting street is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy The Edinburgh Dungeon, another standout attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to The Real Mary King's Close, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of St Giles' Cathedral. This breathtaking church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit National Museum Of Scotland, a popular museum, and take a stroll around the area.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Edinburgh.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Edinburgh.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Waverley Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Royal Oak is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Oxford Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Scotland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Edinburgh and beyond. With 1 night left in Edinburgh, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Edinburgh. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Melrose Abbey is the perfect place to start. This monastery is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Edinburgh. Next, head to Queen Mary's House, a curiosity-inducing visitor center, known for its instagrammable features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Jedburgh Abbey. This stunning monument is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Edinburgh.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Fishers In The City, an iconic dining spot in Edinburgh. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Amber Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ondine Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at The Alchemist Edinburgh, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Regent Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Bow Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Scotland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Dunfermline and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Crosshill and the village of Falkland. You’ll stay in Aberdeen for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Edinburgh. Begin your sightseeing with Pittencrieff Park. This locally appreciated park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Lochore Meadows, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Edinburgh, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Falkland Palace & Garden. This curiosity-inducing palace is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find St Andrews Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Old Course Hotel is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Scotland at Aberdeen. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Aberdeen, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a highly-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mi Amore, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Tippling House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Aberdeen’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Scotland.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Slains Castle, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Northern Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Grill offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Scotland!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Aberdeen, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

A top thing to do today is to explore Union Street, a must-see street in Aberdeen. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the underrated Duthie Park, an eye-catching park in Aberdeen. Next, go to Aberdeen Maritime Museum.

Seaton Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Scotland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Aberdeen offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Aberdeen, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Foodstory, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ninety-Nine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Miller & Carter Aberdeen. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Aberdeen tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Aberdeen and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Keep the evening going at St. Machar Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Old Blackfriars, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Krakatoa, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 8 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Scotland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Scotland.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Aberdeen, including a marina, a war memorial, a castle, a nature reserve and much more! Start your day with a visit to Stonehaven Harbour. This increasingly popular marina is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Stonehaven War Memorial, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Aberdeen on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Dunnottar Castle, a popular castle in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - Viewpoint.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Dundee in this laid-back road trip in Scotland. You'll stay here for 2 nights.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dundee.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Daisy Tasker, a top-rated dining spot in Dundee. If you're in the mood for something new, try Premier Inn Dundee North hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Fort. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dundee.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The King Of Islington, known for its lively atmosphere. The Bank Bar Dundee is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Salty Dog offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Scotland.

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dundee. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dundee. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dundee!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dundee. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Dundee Law is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most beloved places to visit in Dundee. Next, head to Verdant Works, a worthwhile museum, known for its standout features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Dundee Contemporary Arts. This instagrammable art gallery is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Rrs Discovery and Slessor Gardens. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dundee.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Porters Bar & Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Premier Inn Dundee East hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dundee.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Trades House, known for its lively atmosphere. The Speedwell Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Draffens offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Dundee as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland!

Day 10 of your self-drive tour in Scotland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Scotland.

Today's adventure in Dundee promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This historic museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Baxter Park, another idyllic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Pentland Hills Regional Park, one of the city’s most intriguing attractions, known for its romantic features.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Edinburgh. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Monteiths offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cafe Andaluz is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Edinburgh. The bars in Edinburgh make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.